About the
Castle
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The Victorian Era Comes to Life
Craigdarroch Castle is a definitively Victorian experience. It is a shining example of a “bonanza castle” — massive houses built for entrepreneurs who became wealthy during the industrial age. In this case, the industrialist was Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish immigrant who made his fortune from Vancouver Island coal.
This legendary Victorian mansion, built between 1887 and 1890 on a hill overlooking the City of Victoria, announced to the world that Robert Dunsmuir was the richest and most important man in Western Canada.
He died in 1889, leaving his entire estate to his wife Joan, who lived in the Castle until her death in 1908.
The immense fortune of the Dunsmuir family is reflected in the four floors of exquisite stained glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.
Conservation
Conserving Craigdarroch is not an easy task. Historic photographs of the building and the surrounding landscape offer invaluable help in understanding how the Castle and its grounds used to look. Have old photographs? We want to hear from you!
Returns & Refunds
If you’re looking for a venue for your corporate holiday party, a special dinner for an anniversary, or a networking event for your association, please keep us in mind. The basic rental fee of $3,000 for 3 hours applies to most situations, however we can work with you to custom build an event to meet your expectations.
As a designated National Historic Site, Craigdarroch Castle is an exceptional place to celebrate. As your guests arrive through the Porte-Cochere Entrance and enter the Main Hall, they immediately encounter the magnificent sweeping open oak staircase rising four floors to the Dance Hall. Lavish Victorian era furnishings and decor, exquisite stained glass, and detailed woodwork carved by artisans of days gone by… these all combine to create a warm and welcoming experience.
Events Which We Accommodate Include
Networking events
Conferences
Incentives groups
Fundraising events
Awards ceremonies
Exhibitions
Performances
Festivals
With Each Event, Prices Always Include
1 hour rehearsal time for the wedding party/event coordinators (booked in advance)
34 onsite parking spots for guest use
Two 10 x 10 tents for a staging area if required
Indoor and outdoor non-commercial photo rights
drop tables, garbage & recycling bins
Gift reception table
Society manager and staff on site during the rental time to facilitate your event